The key advantages are the image stabilization and the exposure compensation. The Intelligent Exposure mode goes further that just tweaking the exposure timing. It actually interacts with the dark and light areas of the picture to equalize them - this eliminates the need to take them into Photoshop or iPhoto to change the levels.

The bottom line is that the iA (auto) mode is no the 'dumb' default setting I've come to expect on digital cameras. You can leave the camera on auto for quick shooting and expect results every time that are equal to the best manual setting you would select.

I agree with criticisms that the colour breaks up somewhat at low light/ISO400+ levels. Lumix need to fix this and make this camera legendary.

First impressions. This camera is taking excellent pictures for me.

The secret is the 25mm lens with stunning macro capability. It is bright, and free of distortions. This enables you to inject some visual excitement into routine scenes....
See my current Flickr Stream

http://www.flickr.com/photos/martinhoward/

I am a busy Dad these days, and I don't have the option of lugging around a Digital SLR, and setting up shots. Because of this camera's tiny size (smaller than my wallet), I can keep it on me any time and get great shots. Because of it's strong steel casing, I can let my 6 year-old use it without fear of serious damage.

I agree with criticisms that the colour breaks up somewhat at low light/ISO400+ levels. Lumix need to fix this and make this camera legendary.

Similar Products Used:

Canon IXUS